History of Trinidad

Trinidad is the largest of over 23 islands which make up the country of Trinidad and Tobago. Trinidad derives its name from the Spanish word for “Trinity”.

Arawak and Carib Indians were the first to inhabit the island before Columbus arrived on the island and named it for the Holy Trinity. It took almost 100 years before a community was really established in Trinidad after it had been discovered by Christopher Columbus. Sir Walter Raleigh was also one of the first to visit the location.

Trinidad was predominantly a Spanish treaty with an influx of French planters in 1783 but in 1797 the British took over Trinidad and negotiated a treaty with the Spanish. Africans were brought to work on the plantations and the island became a full British colony in 1802.

Trinidad became adjoined to Tobago in 1889 to form an administrative ward for the British. It was in 1962 the two islands finally achieved independence and became the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

Major Cities/ Towns

The Port of Spain is the capital of Trinidad and Tobago but it is only the third largest city. Chaguanas and San Fernando are first and second in terms of size. The city is also the retail and administrative centre of the island. It is home to two of the largest banks in the Caribbean.

Chaguanas is the largest as well as the fastest growing city in Trinidad and Tobago. It is located about 18 miles from the Port of Spain; it was a minor town in the past until the 1980’s when it started to expand rather rapidly. It is also the birth place of Nobel Prize winner V.S Naipaul.

San Fernando is the second largest city in Trinidad and Tobago. It has been home to a number of prominent citizens of the country including a number of past presidents and a professional PGA golfer as well.